LOBI DAGARI FIGURE 3, Burkina Faso

This Dagari figure has been vetted as being authentic with
significant signs of use and age ( 18th - 19th Century ).

Dagari figures are the most abstract and symbolic of Lobi Figures. They
are the enigmatic, brooding sculpture that protect the Dagari subgroup of
the Lobi people of Burkina Faso. Ranging in size from 22-36" high,
most are frontal, symmetrical and timeless sentinels expressing the traditional
beliefs of the Lobi. Several depart from the norm with animated gestures,
asymmetry or a great degree of symbolic abstraction.

The figures were placed on family altars in the thilda, a small
sacristy or room in each dwelling. Each figure was not a representation
but an actual spirit, or tibil thil. It protected the family and
home from illness and other misfortunes. The spirit could also be used for
divination; it could demand offerings and additions of other figures. The
accumulation of statues on a family altar gave social status and were passed
on from father to son. Most were frontal and symmetrical, but some have
unusually animated gestures.